U.S.-Syria Business Council Hosts High-Level Syria Banking Roundtable

Senior representatives from major Western financial institutions, Syrian banks, and international bodies attend landmark meeting

Washington, D.C. — June 18, 2025 — The U.S.-Syria Business Council convened a high-level banking roundtable today, bringing together senior representatives from at least 15 of the largest and most prominent Western financial institutions, five of Syria’s leading private banks, the Central Bank of Syria, and officials from the United States and United Kingdom governments, the European Union, and the United Nations.

U.S. Ambassador to Turkey and Special Envoy for Syria, Tom Barrack, was in attendance. The Governor of the Central Bank of Syria, H.E. Dr. AbdulKader Husrieh, delivered inspiring and forward-looking remarks, outlining Syria’s vision for reconnecting to the global financial system.

“This roundtable marked an important and necessary first step in reopening dialogue between both sides,” said Sameer Saboungi, attorney and co-founder of the USSBC. “Western banks were reintroduced to their Syrian counterparts, and many participants seemed positively impressed by the level of professionalism and competence demonstrated. This marks the beginning of a broader process aimed at restoring confidence in Syria’s banking sector, re-establishing correspondent banking ties, and enabling the flow of capital into Syria.”

The Council emphasized that this roundtable is the first in a planned series of meetings and engagements designed to rebuild trust, encourage responsible re-entry into the Syrian market, and support the country’s economic recovery.

“At the U.S.-Syria Business Council, we are fully committed to facilitating this process. The fact that we were able to organize this event in under three weeks is a testament to the dedication and determination of Syrian Americans who are eager to see their motherland recover and thrive—and to see their country restore business ties with it,” Saboungi said.

The Council extends its deep gratitude to the legal teams at Foley Hoag LLP and Clifford Chance LLP, as well as to Mr. Stephen Fallon of DBM Consulting, for their invaluable support in planning the event. Appreciation is also extended to the many experts who shared their insights during the roundtable.

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U.S.-Syria Business Council